Joe Garner was a surprise transfer window departure from Carlisle United, but the veteran striker is enjoying a new lease of life.
The 35-year-old dropped out of the Football League for the first time in his career and is leading Oldham Athletic’s push to get back into the EFL
Garner, who had joined Carlisle for a fourth time last season, signed an 18-month deal at Boundary Park and has scored four times in six appearances for the Latics.
That has helped Micky Mellon’s team collect three wins and two draws with just one defeat and they currently lie sixth in the National Conference League table, on course for a play-off spot.
When he left Carlisle in January Garner was quoted as saying: “The way the manager spoke about the team and club, how huge it is, was a major part in me coming here, in addition to already knowing Muzza [Paul Murray].
“I just want to get started, helping the team get more wins and hopefully get us out of this league.”
Garner was a hugely popular figure during his time at Carlisle and played 107 League games in his four spells (two of them on loan) – scoring 32 goals.
He was back for the last time to help the Blues clinch promotion to League One, although they currently look odds on for a quick return to League Two.
If he can help steer Oldham to promotion he could well get another run-out at Brunton Park next season.
